MOC’s inspectors have discovered many violations and shortcomings in planning, adjustment of plans and construction management.

Ho Chi Quang, Deputy Director of MOC’s Architectural Planning Department, said the legal framework has strict regulations on the adjustment of development plans. 

Quang said there are two problems in development adjustment in localities. First, the quality of planning consultancy is not high, so problems arise during implementation, which requires plan adjustments.

Second, overlapping and conflict between development plans.

He pointed out that adjustments are not prohibited, but that adjustments must be made in accordance with strict regulations.

Regarding the adjustments of  development plans and construction management mentioned in the inspectors’ decision, Nguyen Ngoc Tuan, MOC’s Chief Inspector, said before releasing the conclusion, the inspection team had three working sessions with institutions and individuals.

Deputy Minister of Construction Le Quang Hung said if the development plans are good, they should not be adjusted. Plans mostly program development for 10-20 years. In principle, the adjustment is restricted, but this doesn’t mean no adjustments at all.

“It is necessary to be very cautious when making adjustments. This must be carried out in accordance with the law,” he said.

However, despite the strict regulations, unreasonable adjustments are still made. In many cases, adjustments are made just to satisfy investors. Investors want to build more floors, increase construction density and reduce greenery areas.

MOC’s inspectors have pointed out a lot of hot spots related to development plan adjustments, including ones at the Trung Hoa – Nhan Chinh urban area, and Le Van Luong, To Huu and Nguyen Thanh BInh roads in Hanoi.

The adjustments not in line with the current regulations led to a population increase, lack of land for schools, and lack of greenery and supporting work. Meanwhile, Vietnam’s construction standards were not respected.

In Hanoi, Le Van Luong Road is called a “miserable road” because up to 40 apartment buildings have been developed along a road section of just two kilometers in length. 

Of the 13 apartment projects inspected, 12 lack greenery areas, while only one project reserves areas for greenery, but this accounts for only 10 percent.

Thuan Phong